Irene Village Mall is Green

10 April 2010No Comment

Since its inception, Irene Village Mall was envisioned to reflect the farm atmosphere of its surroundings and become a green haven, different from any other shopping centre. Before the development got off the ground, a thorough Environmental Impact Assessment was undertaken and approved and the site was found not to be environmentally sensitive.

Baumhaus Landscape Architects were responsible for the original landscape architecture, which invariably continues to make a distinctive impression on any first-time visitor.

They were careful to ensure that the plant materials were 80% indigenous and able to withstand the harsh Highveld environment, including our high-winter frost. Further sensitivity was shown in the installation of the irrigation system, which had to be able to control leaks effectively – an important consideration in this dolomite-rich area.

A theme of cows, drawing on the Irene vernacular and history, was conceived to be a central feature of the mall.

It runs through the sculptural, landscaping and architectural features like a golden thread and has gone on to become a well-loved brand to locals and first-time visitors alike.

The Mall’s service providers were also carefully chosen to reflect the quality and style of the surrounds and our Waste Management and Landscaping contractors have proven to be doubly worth their salt!

The Don’t Waste Services: Master Recyclers (DWS) carefully categorise and recycle glass, metal, paper and plastic, with waste being picked up by two staff members continuously throughout the day to ensure no unsightly pile-ups.

The Integrated Management System which has been implemented ensures a smooth and hassle-free operation, giving due importance to this underrated feature of daily life.

The ideal would certainly be for every household and entity to manage their waste as effectively and consciously as DWS does!

The percentage of refuse recycled during 2009 was on average a record 80% of all refuse generated by the business at the mall, with a massive 18 639 m3 of landfill space saved throughout the year.

In 2008 they won a Golden Award from DWS for the recycling average of 72%, the highest of all the company’s sites.

For the first three months of 2010, they were already on an average of 74%, with landfill space saved this year at 3131 m3.